Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes scaly, patches of itchy skin that can develop into blisters that can ooze and crust over. Eczema is a hypersensitivity of the skin, much like an allergic reaction, that is triggered by various factors, according to MedlinePlus. The most common triggers are stress, fragrances and certain foods that are considered highly allergic. Highly allergic foods can cause an eczema outbreak because of the increased levels of histamine in the blood. Avoiding these foods can prevent a flare-up and help treat eczema once it develops, according to Healthy-Skin-Guide.
Dairy
Consuming diary products can cause eczema to flare-up. An allergy to dairy is considered one of the most common food allergies in children, affecting up to 8 percent of kids, according to KidsHealth. Dairy's composition is made of whey, liquid part of milk, and curd, the hard part of milk. A person may be allergic to one or both components of cow's milk, leading to an allergic reaction. Once consumed, diary will affect eczema within a few minutes and up to one hour after ingesting the milk.
Nuts
Tree nuts and peanuts are also considered a highly allergic food that can increase an individual's eczema condition. Someone with a nut allergy is allergic to one or more of the proteins found in common tree nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. The Food Allergy Initiative states that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires all food manufactures to disclose the use of highly allergic nuts in their products. If a food product is manufactured in a facility where nuts are also processed, disclosure is also required.
Wheat
Wheat contains four primary proteins that lead to an allergic reaction. The primary protein that affects eczema the greatest is gluten. Gluten is commonly found in breads, pasta and lunchmeat, according to MayoClinic.com. When someone with a wheat allergy eats wheat products, her body mistakes the proteins as harmful substances and attempts to fight them off with antibodies and histamine. Increased histamine leads to irritation and inflammation in the skin, causing eczema.
Seafood
Seafood is a highly allergic food that can cause eczema. A severe seafood allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Other common seafood allergy symptoms include hives, throat swelling and asthmatic symptoms, such as shortness of breathe, chest tightness and the inability to breathe, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
